Quote: (Originally Posted by
mdemon)
Can someone answer a question (or two) for me please?
1) Is it "DIR" to use a helmet?
2) Is it "DIR" to use a helmet with torches on?
Thank you!
No and no.
There are reasons of course. It could prevent the donation of the long hose, something that really isn't sensible. It's also not really necessary for diving underwater you shouldn't be ramming your head into the cave/wreck ceiling - better to improve your awareness of the environment. As for helmet mounted lights they are useless for signalling - how do you do an OK, how do you keep the light forward to indicate to your buddy you are still behind them when you might want to look somewhere else, how do you create an emergency signal, etc etc.
I believe the CDG use them but then they are diving solo so the signalling isn't an issue and they are often caving to get to the water where a helmet is sensible to protect your head. DIR diving is all about underwater and in a team so they would be the wrong tool for the job
Cheers
Al